Dramatic changes have occurred in computer-aided structural engineering during the past 25 years. Computers have evolved from large, slow processors with little available storage to fast machines having virtual memory. Significant changes have occurred recently with the advent of microcomputers. The conferences on electronic computation have kept pace with the changes that have occurred. The eighth conference on electronic computation includes papers on computer application in foundation engineering, structural optimization, structural analysis, and design of reinforced concrete structures. Computer aided education is also reviewed. Application and implementation of microcomputers is reviewed using dynamic analysis, field project management, interactive design, and other examples as demonstrations of their use and potential. The future direction of computer applications is also reviewed.